A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Christchurch vs. Fez for Attractions, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Christchurch or Fez?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Christchurch or Fez? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Christchurch

Christchurch is a outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and cultural city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Fez

Fez is a busy, colorful, and cultural city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Christchurch and Fez: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Christchurch or Fez?

You'll generally find more things to do in Fez than Christchurch. Fez is bigger than Christchurch, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Fez is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Christchurch is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, and hiking. Christchurch is well known for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere. Fez is well known for its ancient medina, gorgeous riads, and amazing local dishes. Also, Fez is famous for the Chouara Tannery.

The Chouara Tannery

How is Christchurch different from Fez?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Fez and Christchurch. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Christchurch or Fez?

Fez is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Fez are among the most recognizable in the world. Tucked into the medina are ancient mosques, historic universities, and beautiful gardens. Highlights of the city include Al Quaraouiyine Mosque, Dar Batha (a palace and museum), and Medersa Bou Inania (a former theological college). Another not to be missed sight is the tanneries. You'll likely smell them before you see them, but the history is truly impressive.

Many visitors head to Christchurch specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with street art and local galleries. There's also Canterbury Museum, the International Antarctic Centre, the Arts Centre, and the Riccarton House & Bush.

Is the Food Better in Christchurch or Fez? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Fez is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Fez is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Some of the best food in Morocco can be found in Fez. Head away from the main gates and the major tourist routes to find more local restaurants. Every visitor must try tagine. It's not actually a recipe but instead a cooking pot and technique. If you order a tagine, you'll enjoy a stew like dish that's slow cooked and usually made with lamb or chicken although vegetarian options are often available. Other dishes to try include couscous and pastilla. Pastilla is a pastry covered chicken dish that is seasoned with cinnamon and sugar.

Christchurch has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a mix of cozy cafes and casual eateries around town. You'll also find some fine dining restaurants as well as international flavors.

Is Christchurch or Fez Better for Nightlife?

Christchurch is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Fez is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Christchurch has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has its share of dance clubs, live music venues, and laid back bars. You'll find a number of popular hangout spots around Oxford Terrace or on the historic New Regent Street.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fez. It's a conservative city and the nightlife reflects that. You'll find some bars in the major hotel chains and you can often find alcohol at the more expensive restaurants.

Is Christchurch or Fez Better for Beaches?

Christchurch is an excellent place to visit for the beache. However, Fez is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Christchurch attract visitors from all over. There are sandy beaches in the area with water sports and various amenities. The summer months are the most popular time for hanging out at the beach, and you'll find local families playing in the sun or enjoying a picnic.

Fez is not a beach destination.

Is Christchurch or Fez Better for its Old Town?

Fez is terrific for its old town. However, Christchurch does not have a historic old town.

Fez has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The walled medina offers a maze of streets that are lined with shops selling perfume, spices, street food, and trinkets.

Christchurch does not have a historic old town.

Is Christchurch or Fez Better for Hiking?

Christchurch is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Fez is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Christchurch. There are many beautiful hikes in the area that take you along the coastline or past local historic sights. The landscape is diverse and you'll find many amazing parks in the area. Hooker Valley Track is one of the best hiking routes nearby.

Fez is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Christchurch or Fez?

Fez is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Fez make it a world-class shopping destination. Head to the medina and try your hand at negotiating. There are impressive art shops and hidden gems spread between more touristy shops selling souvenir trinkets.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Christchurch. There's a mix of boutique shops, outlet malls, and open air markets. Some of the best shopping places include the Tannery and the Colombo.

Is Christchurch or Fez Better for Families?

Christchurch is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Fez is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Christchurch is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The International Antarctic Centre is a thrilling and fun experience. There's also the Orana Wildlife Park or Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. For adrenaline junkies there are the ropes courses at the Adrenalin Forest. There are also many indoor playgrounds and rock climbing facilities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Fez. Kids will enjoy wandering the medina, sampling Moroccan dishes, and trying their hand at bartering for a good price. There are several gardens that offer a quiet oasis from the chaotic streets. There's also baklava and other sweet treats that kids can taste. Many kids enjoy taking a tour to the nearby countryside where they can feed monkeys, hike, and visit local villages.

Is Christchurch or Fez Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Christchurch and Fez make for a excellent place to visit.

Couples visit Christchurch frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Punting on the Avon River is one of the most romantic activities in the city. There are also botanical gardens, parks, and natural areas that are fun to explore. Nearby, you can do a wine tour, or there are cocktail bars and charming restaurants in town. The city also has a nice theater and many other date night activities.

Fez is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who like an adventure will enjoy soaking up the medina, visiting the gardens, and taking a trip into the countryside.

Is Christchurch or Fez Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fez is terrific for backpackers. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Fez. Prices are very affordable and there are riads that range in price and style. Many restaurants cater to different budgets and most of the entertainment involves wandering around and soaking up the atmosphere.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Christchurch. There's no shortage of hostels around town, and many backpackers pass through Christchurch on their epic New Zealand adventure.

Is Christchurch or Fez Better for Students?

Christchurch is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Fez is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Christchurch. It's the largest city on the South Island and there are plenty of activities and nearby trips that you can enjoy.

Fez is not popular with students.

Is Christchurch or Fez Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Christchurch is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Fez is lacking in options for its public transit.

Christchurch has some public transit options. While it's not a diverse transit system, the buses are well connected and offer the cheapest way to get around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Fez. There's a basic public transportation system with buses and a train station, but you'll likely need to take taxis if you can't walk to a destination. Taxis are affordable and abundant.

Is Christchurch or Fez a more walkable city?

Christchurch and Fez both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Christchurch is a very walkable city. The city center is relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

Fez is a very walkable destination. The medina can be explored on foot, but it's easy to get lost so allow a lot of time. There are several walking routes through the medina that are marked with colors but you'll likely find yourself wandering on and off the routes as you explore. Outside of the medina, you'll likely want to take a taxi.

For even more information, also check out Is Christchurch Worth Visiting? and Is Fez Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fez or Christchurch?

How long in Christchurch or Fez?

In either Christchurch or Fez, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Fez than Christchurch because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Christchurch, and 3-5 days is enough time in Fez.

Families should spend more time in Christchurch than Fez. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Christchurch, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Fez than Christchurch if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Fez.

One day in Christchurch or Fez?

With nightlife and food around the cultural destination of Christchurch, there's plenty to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Each neighborhood in Fez has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Christchurch or Fez?

Many people visit Christchurch for a weekend. With food and shopping around the outdoorsy city of Christchurch, there's plenty to do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Fez is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Christchurch or Fez?

The destination of Christchurch offers shopping and museums. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Each neighborhood in Fez has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Christchurch or Fez?

Christchurch, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Fez is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Morocco, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Morocco.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Christchurch and Fez, we can see that Christchurch is more expensive. And not only is Fez much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Christchurch is in Pacific and Fez is in Africa, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Fez would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Fez and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Christchurch would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Christchurch than you might in Fez.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Christchurch Expensive? and Is Fez Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Christchurch or Fez?

Fez has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Christchurch. When comparing the sizes of Christchurch and Fez, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.